Troubleshooting
Odontonema tubaeforme problems — and how to fix them
Odontonema tubaeforme (Odontonema tubaeforme) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Few flower spikes
Usually too much shade or excess nitrogen. Give more sun and a phosphorus-leaning feed before the autumn bloom period.
Frost dieback
Top growth dies back in frost. In zone 9 mulch the base so it resprouts from the roots in spring.
Spreading by suckers
It slowly colonises via root suckers. Edge the planting or grow in a container to keep it contained.
Caterpillars and chewing pests
Soft foliage attracts leaf-chewers. Inspect regularly and pick off or treat with a targeted biological control if damage spreads.
Prevent odontonema tubaeforme problems before they start
Most odontonema tubaeforme issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for odontonema tubaeforme in general rather than its problems? Read the full odontonema tubaeforme care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Odontonema tubaeforme problems — FAQ
Why is my odontonema tubaeforme few flower spikes?
Usually too much shade or excess nitrogen. Give more sun and a phosphorus-leaning feed before the autumn bloom period.
Why is my odontonema tubaeforme frost dieback?
Top growth dies back in frost. In zone 9 mulch the base so it resprouts from the roots in spring.
Why is my odontonema tubaeforme spreading by suckers?
It slowly colonises via root suckers. Edge the planting or grow in a container to keep it contained.
Why is my odontonema tubaeforme caterpillars and chewing pests?
Soft foliage attracts leaf-chewers. Inspect regularly and pick off or treat with a targeted biological control if damage spreads.